Benelli Leoncino 250: What We Know So Far

From expected pricing, features and engine details to underpinnings and design, here's all we know about the baby Leoncino so far

After DSK Group’s bankruptcy, Benelli's future in India seemed uncertain. However, thanks to the recently announced association with Hyderabad-based Mahavir Group, things are expected to get better. Under this new partnership, Mahavir Group's associate company, Adishwar Auto Ride India (AARI) will assemble the Italian bikes at its new manufacturing facility in Hyderabad. At the partnership announcement event, it was also announced that Benelli will be launching the whole Leoncino lineup, including the Leoncino 250 in India. Here's what we know about it so far.

Design & Features:

The baby Leoncino 250 sports a similar retro-style scrambler design as its older sibling, but in a more compact dimension. Its oval-shaped LED headlamp and a neatly sculpted 14-litre fuel tank reaffirm the same. The stubby tail section is complemented by a 150-section rear slick. It also sports a fully digital instrument console.

Engine:

At the heart of the Leoncino 250, lies a 249cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled DOHC engine, which powers other quarter-litre offerings from the company too. This motor churns out 25.8PS of power at 9250rpm and 21.2Nm of torque at 8000rpm, mated to a 6-speed transmission. For comparison, its closest rival, the KTM 250 Duke produces 4.1PS more power and 2.8Nm more torque. Benelli also claims a fuel efficiency of 24.3kmpl, which, rest assured, will be put to test once we get our hands on the motorcycle.

Underpinnings:

Benelli has equipped the Leoncino 250 with a steel trellis frame. It is suspended on 41mm USD forks, with 120mm of travel at the front and a monoshock unit, with 51mm of travel at the rear. Braking is courtesy 280mm petal disc at the front and a 240mm unit at the rear. Dual channel ABS comes as standard. Its 17-inch aluminium alloy wheels come wrapped in 110-section front and 150-section rear tyres. The Leonico tips the scale at 153kg, making it 6kg heavier than the 250 Duke (both dry).

Expected pricing and rivals:

One of the important announcements was the decision to price the Italian bikes competitively. Hence, an expected price of Rs 2.2 lakh (ex-showroom) shouldn't be surprising. While that is still Rs 40,000 more than the 250 Duke’s price, the motorcycle's unique Scrambler-inspired looks should help it attract buyers. Along with the KTM, it will also rival the Yamaha FZ25.